City to send out request for proposals for the development of Fountain Hills

The City of Newton will soon be sending out requests for proposals for the development of the Fountain Hills Subdivision.

At Monday night’s meeting, the city council plans to discuss how the city should use the 18 of 20 lots they currently own at the Fountain Hills Subdivision. The city staff proposes the 18 lots be given to a developer, or developers, at no cost in its proposal. A council report states that the developers are encouraged to use their imagination to meet certain city standards.

The city will evaluate the proposals based on several factors, including amenities such as bike trail connections and tree preservation. Other factors include the number, quality and design of the units.

The CHAT study, which addressed housing concerns in Newton, suggested that any development on this property should enhance it rather than discount the property. The CHAT report suggested doing this by connecting the site to the existing city-wide path system using sale proceeds, tax increment financing and other financing measures to enhance the property.

The request for proposal will be mailed directly to 30 area developers and posted in major media outlets. Expression of interest is due Aug. 28 and the city staff will meet with interested developers on Aug. 29 and 30. Final proposals are due Sept. 16.

The city will also vote on a resolution to appoint Public Works Director Keith Laube as the city’s representative regarding a FEMA application.

The city as applied for funds to help repair damage caused by flooding this spring. Jasper County was declared one of several counties in Iowa to be eligible for FEMA funds. FEMA requires a representative be appointed by the local government.